The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 157

Olivia

Friday afternoon found us speeding along the Pacific Coast Highway, windows down and music playing. Alexander looked relaxed behind the wheel, one hand resting casually on the steering wheel, the other occasionally reaching over to squeeze my knee.

“So, are you going to tell me more about this Malibu house?” I asked, watching the ocean glitter alongside the highway.

“And ruin the surprise? Not a chance.” He grinned, sunglasses hiding his eyes. “Just trust me.”

“The last time you said ‘trust me,‘ I ended up zip–lining across a canyon in the island.”

“And wasn’t it exhilarating?”

“Terrifying is the word I’d use.”

Alexander’s phone buzzed with an incoming call. He glanced at the display before silencing it. “Work can wait until Monday.”

“Look at you, ignoring calls. Who are you and what have you done with my workaholic husband?”

“I’m evolving,” he said with mock seriousness. “Becoming a more balanced individual.”

“Uh–huh.” I wasn’t convinced. “Let’s see how long that lasts.”

“At least until Monday morning,” he promised. “This weekend is just for us.”

The Malibu house, as Alexander had modestly called it, turned out to be a stunning oceanfront villa perched on the cliffs above a private beach. Modern architecture blended seamlessly with the natural landscape, floor- to–ceiling windows capturing breathtaking views of the Pacific.

“This is incredible,” I breathed as we stepped into the expansive living room. The space opened onto an infinity pool that seemed to merge with the ocean beyond.

“Glad you approve,” Alexander said, looking pleased with himself. “Wait until you see the master suite.”

kidding. The bedroom featured a king–sized bed facing the ocean, with a private terrace and an outdoor shower concealed by natural rock formations. The bathroom boasted a deep soaking tub positioned to catch

house,” I said, running my hand along the smooth stone countertop.

the best for Mrs. Carter,” Alexander replied, wrapping

I asked, leaning back against his

moonlight swim…” His hands slid up to cup

arms to face him. “But

“Your wish

into swimwear and made our way down the private staircase to the beach below. The

I asked, digging my toes

mentioned it was available for the weekend,” Alexander said, watching a seagull soar overhead. “I made

few calls,” I repeated with a laugh. “Just

said with a grin that was simultaneously infuriating

I started walking toward the water’s edge, feeling the cool spray

behind me. Despite my head start, Alexander caught up quickly, his longer stride eating up the distance between us. Just as I reached the outcropping of rocks, his

I gasped through my laughter as he spun

who got a ten–second head start,” he countered, setting me down but keeping his

moment, catching our breath, the waves lapping at our ankles. Alexander’s eyes were bright with something I couldn’t quite name, happiness, maybe,

asked, suddenly self–conscious under his

thinking how beautiful you look right

respond, he pulled me into a kiss that started gentle but quickly deepened, his hands sliding down to cup my bottom and pull me closer. I felt myself

against my lips. “Before I’m tempted

agreed, stepping

of experience?” he teased, taking my hand as

“Hardly. Just common sense.”

between swimming in the infinity pool and lounging on the deck chairs with cocktails. By the time the sun began to set, I felt more relaxed than I

Alexander asked, handing me a fresh towel as

I admitted, wrapping

Dinner should be

Did you